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Fresh appeal launched over murdered Strabane man

A FRESH appeal for information about the murder of a Strabane man who was shot dead nine years ago has been launched.

On Monday - a day after the ninth anniversary of his death - Gardai issued a renewed appeal for information about the murder of Andrew Burns.

Mr Burns, who was 27-years-old at the time of his death, was murdered in a paramilitary shooting in a chapel car park in Donneyloop, Co Donegal, on February 12, 2008.

To date one man has been convicted and jailed in relation to his murder but on Monday investigating detectives said they believe that a number of other people were involved in the shooting.

Witnesses have already come forward in answer to previous appeals but Gardai hope that this fresh appeal will bring further information.

A spokesperson said: "Gardai believe that a number of people were involved in this murder and to date a number of people have been arrested and questioned in connection with the investigation both in this jurisdiction and in Northern Ireland.

"An Garda Síochána are grateful for all the witnesses that have come forward and made statements but Gardaí believe that there are still people who have information which may assist with the investigation.

Justice

Gardai say they are determined to bring those responsible to justice. The spokesperson added: "Gardaí wish to renew their appeal for anyone with information no matter how insignificant it may seem to come forward to assist with this investigation.

"They may contact the incident room at Letterkenny Garda Station on 074 91 67100 or the Garda Confidential Telephone Line 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station."

On Monday, Mr Burns' sister, Michelle said her brother's murder had devastated the family.

She made an emotional appeal for anyone who holds vital information in relation to what happened that night to come forward.

"It's hard to believe that so much time has passed but it still feels as if it was yesterday. It's still very raw for the family. It's really more poignant now because mum and dad are now deceased and Andrew's death totally destroyed them," she said.

Michelle has asked those who know what happened on that night "to search their conscience, to search their hearts and to think of our family and what we have been through."

"My dad's dying wish was for all the people who were involved in Andrew's murder to be brought to justice," she added.